Al-Mujādilah (المجادلة) in Islam
Introduction
Al-Mujādilah (المجادلة), translated as “She who disputed,” is the 58th Sūrah (chapter) of the Qur’an. The Surah draws its name from a specific event involving a woman who disputed a legal matter with the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Etymology and Translation
- Arabic: المجادلة
- Turkish: Mücadele
- Literal Meaning: “She who disputed” or “The Disputer”
The term “Al-Mujādilah” derives from the Arabic root “ج د ل” (j-d-l), meaning “to dispute” or “to argue.”
Qur’anic Context
The Surah begins with the verse:
<p>“Indeed Allah has heard the statement of the woman who disputes with you (O Muhammad) concerning her husband and complains to Allah. And Allah hears your dialogue; for Allah is All-Hearing, All-Seeing.” (Qur’an 58:1)</p>
Historical Background
The expression refers to Khaulah bint Tha’lbah, the wife of Aus ibn Ṣāmit. Khaulah approached the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) because her husband, in a fit of anger, pronounced a form of divorce known as “ظِهَار” (Zihar), a pre-Islamic custom where a man declares his wife to be akin to his mother’s back, intending to permanently sever marital relations. This left Khaulah in a state of marital limbo, neither fully divorced nor married.
Legal and Theological Significance
Khaulah’s case led to a divine revelation that abolished the harsh custom of Zihar. Allah declared that men who resort to Zihar must either free a slave, fast for two successive months, or feed sixty needy people before they can re-engage in marital relations with their wives. This ruling not only protected the dignity of women but also instituted a more compassionate approach to resolving marital disputes.
Books for Further Studies
- “Tafsir Ibn Kathir” - A classical work of Qur’anic exegesis that provides comprehensive insights into the verses and their contexts.
- “The Study Quran” - An accessible yet scholarly translation and commentary of the Qur’an.
- “Women and Gender in Islam” by Leila Ahmed - This book explores the historical and cultural contexts of women’s issues in Islam.
Takeaways and Conclusion
- Empowerment: Al-Mujādilah signifies the importance of addressing concerns and disputes within a legal and ethical framework.
- Revelation: The Surah symbolizes divine sensitivity towards the plight of individuals, especially women in marginalized situations.
- Reform: It stands as a testament to the transformative impact of Islam on pre-Islamic customs and practices, promoting justice and fairness.
Conclusion
Al-Mujādilah is a profound chapter that underscores the importance of both dialogue and divine intervention in resolving human disputes. It highlights the role of Islamic law in transforming societal norms to reflect greater compassion and justice. Through the story of Khaulah bint Tha’lbah, the Qur’an addresses and abolishes harmful pre-Islamic practices, providing lasting and humane solutions for marital issues.
